Honoring a Legacy: Gota de Leche Celebrates the 140th Birth Anniversary of Francisca Tirona Benitez

Gota de Leche Manila proudly joined the City Government of Imus, led by the Office of the City Tourism and Heritage Officer, in honoring the life, legacy, and 140th birth anniversary of Francisca Tirona Benitez on June 4, 2026, at the Imus Pilot Elementary School.

Francisca Tirona Benitez was a visionary educator, a fierce advocate for women’s rights, and a co-founder of the prestigious Philippine Women’s University (PWU) — the very first university for women in Asia. Beyond her monumental contributions to education, she also served as a dedicated director for Gota de Leche back in 1915, helping guide our early mission to support Filipino mothers and children.

Our Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Anna Leah Sarabia, attended the commemorative event alongside notable local leaders and figures, including:

• City Administrator Larry Monzon (representing City Mayor Alex “AA” L. Advincula)
• Councilor Yen Saquilayan
• Acting City Tourism and Heritage Officer Dr. Jun Paredes
• Dr. Elmer Dayrit (Principal of Francisca Tirona Benitez Integrated School)
• PWU President Marco Alfredo Benitez and the descendants of the Benitez family.

Carrying the Torch of Empowerment

More than a century later, Francisca Tirona Benitez’s dedication to equality, education, and social welfare continues to inspire our work. We are deeply grateful to the City of Imus for organizing this beautiful tribute, and we remain committed to uplifting the community just as our pioneers did.

“Ang kanyang kontribusyon ay nagsilbing inspirasyon sa mga kababaihang Pilipino upang patuloy na ipaglaban ang kanilang lugar sa lipunan.”

Thank you, Imus, for keeping her memory alive!

#GotaDeLecheManila #FranciscaTironaBenitez #WomenInHistory #ImusHeritage #FilipinoPioneers

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